Overview
- The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) diet was found to increase the likelihood of reaching age 70 in good health by 86%.
- Healthy aging was defined as living without major chronic diseases while maintaining cognitive, physical, and mental health.
- The study analyzed dietary data from over 105,000 middle-aged nurses and health professionals over 30 years.
- Diets rich in plant-based foods and low in ultra-processed foods were linked to better aging outcomes, with AHEI outperforming other diets.
- The findings emphasize dietary flexibility, allowing for adaptation to individual preferences and needs.